LAGRANGE, IN — Lakeland School Corporation is thrilled to announce the appointment of Delmar Bontrager as the new head coach for the Lakeland Boys’ Varsity Basketball program.
Bontrager brings a wealth of experience, strong basketball knowledge, and a love for the Lakeland community. He is committed to building a basketball program built on the three pillars of purpose, pride, and passion. The purpose for each Laker basketball player will be to achieve to the highest level of his ability through academics, competitiveness, humility, and a WE over ME mentality. Laker players and coaches will demonstrate pride in the Lakeland community by being well-prepared and refusing to be out-worked, on and off the court. And finally, Lakeland players will compete with passion by exhibiting a boundless enthusiasm for the game, each other, and the school community.
A New Era for Laker Basketball
Lakeland’s coaching search focused on finding a leader for the present and the future–someone with the experience to immediately step in and lead a successful program while also investing in the future by building up the youth program. Bontrager stood out as the ideal candidate to lead the Lakers into their next chapter.
“I have been involved in coaching at every level from pee wee basketball to varsity head coach, and each spot in between,” said Bontrager. “I look forward to working with the great group that is coming back next season and building on that success by generating sustainable, long-term success at the youth level.”
Lakeland Connection
Bontrager has deep connections within the Lakeland community. He played basketball and football during his time as a Laker, and both of his sons attended Lakeland and played basketball as well. Bontrager lives in Wolcottville with his wife of 26 years, Summer, and when not coaching basketball, his primary job is with Lagrange County REMC. In his downtime, he enjoys golfing and spending time with family.
Looking Ahead
Coach Bontrager will immediately begin preparing for the upcoming season by finalizing his staff, organizing summer workouts, and planning youth camps. He is also eager to meet with players and parents as soon as possible. Bontrager has two goals for the upcoming season: 1) To play with purpose, pride, and passion, and 2) To get 1 percent better each day.
"We are excited to welcome Coach Bontrager back to Laker Nation," said Ryan Yoder, Lakeland Athletic Director. "Delmar possesses the passion and the leadership qualities necessary to elevate our basketball program and help our athletes reach their highest potential."
Lakeland fans, students, and alumni are encouraged to join the school administration in giving Coach Bontrager a warm welcome back to Laker Nation!